The Role of Romanian Economic Elites In The Process Of Modernisation, Development and Europeanisation Historical Dimension & Contemporary Perspective

• Main Author: Nicolae PĂUN
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Dokuz Eylul University 2010-04-01
• Series: Dokuz Eylül Üniversitesi Sosyal Bilimler Enstitüsü Dergisi
• Subjects: Elites; Modernization; Europeanisation; Economy; Transition
• Online Access: http://www.sbe.deu.edu.tr/dergi/cilt12.%20say%C4%B12/paun.pdf

The actions of elites in general and economic elites in particular have played a decisive role in Romanian history, during the three prominent periods we have analyzed as most relevant in the process of development, modernization and Europeanisation of the country: the interwar period, the communist regime and subsequently, the postrevolutionary era. The purpose of this study is therefore to assess the most significant contributions of this highly dynamic social segment to the progress of modern Romania, with special emphasis on the most notable representatives of the economic elite and their evolution in the changing political context of the last nine decades. The study relies on extended personal research conducted over the years in national archives, as well as on a vast bibliography, which provides an original view of the subject and a coherent interpretation of the political and economic evolution fostered by elites - a process that is still in progress and opens to further research.